Documentary Exposes Mainstream Media's 'Miss Representation' of Women in Positions of Power

For Immediate Release:May 3, 2012

Contact:
Robert Butler816.701.3729

Documentary Exposes Mainstream Media's 'Miss Representation' of Women in Positions of Power

When it comes to women, the mainstream media just doesn't get it.

That's the premise behind the new documentary Miss Representation, that will be shown in Kansas City for the first time on Thursday, May 10, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. at the Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St.

Directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, Miss Representation exposes how the media contribute to the under-representation of women in positions of power and influence in America. The film challenges the limited and often disparaging portrayals of women and girls, which make it difficult for women to achieve leadership positions and for the average woman to feel powerful herself.

In a society where media is the most persuasive force shaping cultural norms, the collective message being sent is that a woman's value and power lie in her youth, beauty, and sexuality. The facts speak for themselves: The United States still lags much of the industrialized world in the number of women serving in national legislatures, women hold only 3 percent of power positions in mainstream media, and 65 percent of women and girls experience eating disorders.

From the stories of teenage girls to provocative interviews with such leading women as Condoleezza Rice, Nancy Pelosi, Katie Couric, Rachel Maddow, Margaret Cho, Rosario Dawson, Gloria Steinem, Miss Representation accumulates startling statistics that leave audiences shaken and armed with a new perspective.

Following the screening Christa Dubill of NBC Action News will briefly speak.

Admission is free. The event will be preceded by a 6 p.m. reception. RSVP online[1] or call 816.701.3407.

Co-sponsored by the Junior League of Kansas City and the Junior League of Wyandotte County.